Top Shelf: Best Austin Bars

Your glass will always be half full at the 56 best bars in the city

By Meredith Bethune, Ramona Flume and Sam Sumpter

Photo by Amy Mikler

Long gone are the days when Austin was a town full of college bars serving $2 well drinks. Now, there’s a watering hole for every taste, whether you’re a wine aficionado, cocktail snob or beer connoisseur. We round up the city’s 56 best bars and divide them into the categories that really matter, from where to drink during the day and what bars have the best games to which classic establishments you must visit at least once and more. Plus, meet a trio of local experts who will school you on wine, beer and spirits. Warning: You’re gonna want a drink after reading this. Just pick your place.